The elephant in the room that is the future of Thapelo Maseko at Mamelodi Sundowns was addressed following the Tshwane giants' elimination from the MTN8 over the weekend.
Sundowns were sent packing from the MTN8 in the semi-finals stage after a 2-2 draw on aggregate, and 4-1 loss on penalites, with proceedings in the second leg at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday ending in a 1-all stalemate.
The match also marked a rare appearance for Maseko, being brought on for the last 25 minutes as he featured for the second time this season.
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He has recently taken to social media platform Instagram to express his unhappiness, describing his situation as a 'fire fading'.
"I don’t even know when it started, but lately it’s like the fire in me is fading. I still train like my life depends on it, still push through every tired muscle and every mental battle, but inside it feels empty. The game that once lit up my soul now feels different, heavier, colder," wrote Maseko, hinting at unhappiness over his lack of game-time.
According to reports, The Brazilians had turned down multiple offers from several teams that have attempted to buy or get the 21-year-old on loan.
Despite his plea, it seems the defending champions will be keeping the left-footed player, as was alluded to by head coach Miguel Cardoso when quizzed on the matter.
"He will be here after the window closes. Why should he not be here? He is a Mamelodi Sundowns player, he is part of the squad, and as I see in the club, I don't see any intentions from anyone to let him go. He is working good," said Cardoso, speaking at the post-match press conferecene.
"Of course, when you don't have Lucas Ribeiro playing on the right, where he can play, it gives more chances to players who can play in those positions.
"It is obvious he is trying to fight for his place. Obviously, I want my players motivated, and if I give them chances, it's also to keep them motivated and to understand that they are part of the core of the team.
"There is no one in the group that we do not count. Everything that happens inside the club, we will always have to deal with the interest of the player, but the interest of the club (as well).
"I think it's clear from the statement that the club made regarding players going out and coming in. It's a moment for stability, not instability. Because we are building," he added.
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The Chloorkop-based outfit have another massive game, this time in the Betway Premiership, as they tackle Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Wednesday (19:30).
Photo: Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images
